🌱 Preservation Commission Denies Demolitions + Fourth Of July Events

Morning, friends! Joyce Nash here with your Friday edition of the Savannah Patch newsletter, full of everything you need to know about what's going on in town.

But first, today's weather:

Clouds and hazy sun. High: 91 Low: 73.

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Here are the top three stories today in Savannah:

1. Savannah's Historic Preservation Commission has denied requests to demolish five buildings near the southwest corner of Forsyth Park. The buildings' three owners wanted to demolish the structures to make room for a new office complex. However, the Preservation Commission voted down their request on the grounds that the buildings have historic value based on the structures' uniqueness and input from public comments. Two other buildings were approved for demolition. (WTOC)
2. A well-known coach at Woodville-Tomkins High School has been recognized for his contributions. Coach Joe Turner had an illustrious football coaching career, but he also coached Olympic gold medalist Lucinda Williams. During his years at Woodville-Tomkins, Turner won multiple state and regional championships and was named Georgia's Coach of the Year on seven occasions. Earlier this week, Woodville-Tomkins High School revealed that they have renamed the school's gym in honor of Turner, and school officials unveiled a bronze bust of Turner. (WSAV)
3. Savannah has plenty of options this weekend to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July holiday! The annual Savannah Stars and Strips July 4th Weekend Celebration kicks off today, Jun. 30, and runs through Jul. 4 at the Plant Riverside District. At Fort McAllister State Historic Park, there will be living history demonstrations on Saturday, Jul. 1, and Tuesday, Jul. 4, from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. On Jul. 4, The Park at Eastern Wharf will host a free community concert from 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. (Connect Savannah)

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Today in Savannah:

Friday, June 30

• Get Up Ollie Boy: Poets In Parks At Forsyth Park (10:00 AM)
• Swamptooth At Service Brewing Co. (6:00 PM)
• Summer Stomps Free Line Dancing Lessons At The Clyde Venue (7:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• Savannah Youth City, Inc. was in Yamacraw Village recently to support residents with hurricane preparedness supplies. The organization is making weekly stops in neighborhoods around the city. (Savannah Youth City, Inc. via Facebook)
• The Savannah History Museum is offering additional days for battlefield tours. Tours will be available on Friday, Jun. 30, and Saturday, Jul. 1, as well as on Monday, Jul. 3, and Tuesday, Jul. 4. This award-winning tour takes attendees through the 1779 Siege of Savannah. (Savannah History Museum via Facebook)
• The Savannah Ballet has announced an upcoming Barbie dance camp! The camp will run from Jul. 10-14 and is open to children ages 3-6. To learn more or register, call 912–897-2102 or email Rebecca@savannahballettheatre.org. (SavBallet via Instagram)

You're all caught up for today! I'll see you soon.

— Joyce Nash

About me: Joyce is a freelance writer and poet whose work has appeared in the Hello Gloria newsletter and Nine Cloud Journal. Her background ranges from journalism to fitness instruction and spans the east coast to the West. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband and two cats.